Helpful Score: 2
This is Steven Saylor's second book in the Gordianus the Finder series. Set in first century B.C. Rome, it breathes life into very remote historical figures while weaving a great murder mystery. This book centers on Marcus Crassus, the richest man in Rome, and probably the richest man in the history of mankind. Unless you are a historian, like me, you probably never heard of him, but you did hear about the man he defeated---Spartacus. Both history buffs and mystery lovers will love this book and this series.
Helpful Score: 1
I am listing all the books in Steven Saylor's Rosa sub Roma series except the last one, which is on my wish list! This was a very enjoyable series...well written, educational (at least for me who previously had no interest in ancient Rome) and fun to see the progression of Gordianus the Finder's life.
You may want to order all of them because they're a fast read and, to me anyway, very addictive.
You may want to order all of them because they're a fast read and, to me anyway, very addictive.
Helpful Score: 1
This is a mystery story set in the ancient Roman Empire. If that appeals to you you will probably like it. It's well written and well thought out. I find both Rome and mysteries interesting, but not together, apparently.
A wonderful blend of entertainment and education. The mystery is satisfying and you can easily imagine living during the time of the Romans.
Great mystery series about ancient Rome.
The hideously disfigured body was found in the atrium. The only clues are a blood-soaked cloak, and, carved into the stone at the corpse's feet, the word 'Sparta.' The overseer of Marcus Crassus's estate has been murdered, apparently by two slaves bent on joining Spartacus' revolt. The wealthy, powerful Crassus vows to honor an ancient law and have his ninety-nine remaining slaves slaughtered in three days. Gordianus the Finder is summoned from Rome by a mysterious client to find out the truth about the murder before the three days are up. From the brutal stench, of a slave galley to the limpid, sea-glazed beauty of Baiae and the sulphurous pits of the Sybil at Cumae, he must risk all he loves, including his life, sto stop a senseless slaughter.
Mr Saylor is a good writer.
